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Relationship myths & navigating youth relationships
The following article is part three of a four-week series focusing on raising awareness about dating violence. February is Dating Violence Awareness month, and we hope to educate our community on this very important issue. One in three young people will experience dating violence in their lifetime. Locally, the Hays-Caldwell Women’s Center has been serving victims of domestic and dating violence, sexual assault and child abuse since 1978. Last year, HCWC served 2,257 victims of abuse (face-to-face) primarily from Hays and Caldwell Counties.
Youth and young adults receive many messages about relationships from media, friends, family and society. Some messages promote healthy relationships, while others reinforce harmful myths. Here are some common myths: Myth: Jealousy shows that they care about you.
Reality: Extreme jealousy is a sign of insecurity and control, not love. Healthy partners should offer trust, while also being trustworthy.
Myth: Picking on or bullying someone means you have a crush on them.
Reality: Causing someone else harm is never okay and should never be excused.
Myth: Love hurts.
Reality: Conflict happens, but constant fighting, emotional pain, manipulation or abuse is not love. When disagreements do happen, mutual respect, healthy communication, and compromise are essential.
Myth: You should change for your partner.
Reality: Growth is good, but no one should pressure you to change who you are to be “worthy” of love.
Myth: True love means you never need space.
Reality: Healthy partners respect each other’s independence and personal time.
Myth: A healthy relationship is all you need to be happy.
Reality: A relationship should add to your life, but your happiness should also come from within.
As young people navigate relationships, adults can support them by challenging relationships myths and having conversations about the qualities of healthy relationships. Learn more about healthy and unhealthy relationships at stopthehurt.org and loveisrespect.org.
We are committed to providing free, safe and confidential services to victims of dating violence. If you are experiencing dating violence, please call our HELPLine 24/7 at 512-396-4357. For additional information visit our educational website: stopthehurt.org. HCWC’s Prevention Educators are available to give presentations and education about dating violence.
